There are a wide range of firearms offences from those involving air weapons and firearms certificates to much more serious matters relating to possession of certain weapons. The most serious firearms offences are almost always dealt with in the Crown Court and can attract very lengthy custodial sentences.

The offence of possessing a prohibited weapon, which covers certain sorts of firearms, is one that carries a mandatory 5 year term of imprisonment. Offences such as Possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.